Sermons about Caesar

On this Christmas Eve, we are privileged to have Kingswood University President and author Dr. Steve Lennox deliver today’s message. Join Dr. Lennox as he explores Luke 1 to offer insights into the remarkable faith, humility, and submission of this woman highly favored by God.

Who enjoys paying taxes? The Pharisees thought they had the perfect question to trap Jesus in His words, by asking him if they should pay taxes to Caesar. But once again they are confounded by Jesus' wisdom.

When you stand before an enemy and asked some question that will decide your future in concrete and unpleasant ways, it is best not to waffle around, lest your enemy become impatient with you and make your decision for you.

Some wise old wag once said we should never discuss politics or religion in polite company. Well I am about to discuss politics and religion and do it in polite company. But I am in good company because Jesus discussed both.
Actually He was forced into by some religious and political fanatics. The “they” in verse 13 is most likely the Sanhedrin, the supreme ruling body in Israel, made up of the Pharisees, Sadducees and scribes and presided over by the chief priest.
Each authority in Israel would put Jesus to a test. The Pharisees in cahoots with the Herodians tested Jesus on taxes. Next the Sadducees will test Jesus on the resurrection and marriage. Then the scribes will test Him concerning Scriptural interpretation and the greatest commandment.
Their goal was to trip up Jesus and catch Him in a trap that would give them some justification to bring charges against Him. Jesus’ goal was to give them no such opportunity so that they would be left with the last resort which was to charge Him illegally and unjustly.
The Pharisees were superstitious religious fundamentalist who cared only about outward appearances and external rituals. They had the forms of godliness without any of the power.
The Herodians were compromised Jews who had fallen in league with the politicians. They were sympathizers of Herod, worldly minded men who feared man more then they feared God.
How could bitter enemies be united? Because they saw Jesus as a serious threat to their power and authority. They hated each other but they hated the Gospel more. So it was and so it has always been. A common enemy leads them to make common cause with each other.

God made a promise to Paul that he would go to Rome and tell his story: his redemption, his salvation, the fact that Jesus is alive! Throughout this story, though, it looks like God's word isn't going to come true. But even after a murderous plot, a shipwreck, life on a deserted island, and a venomous snakebite, Paul still goes to Rome - God keeps his promises.